Project description
Turning down quantum noise in gravitational wave detectors
Gravitational wave detectors have opened a new window to our understanding of the universe, but they are ultimately limited by quantum fluctuations generated by light reflecting off mirrors. This quantum back action (typically below 100 Hz) and the uncertainty in the photon count (shot noise typically present in higher frequencies) limit the detector sensitivity. Funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the QNOIWA project proposes an alternative solution to simultaneously tackle both shot noise and quantum back action. The technique relies on entangling the gravitational wave detector and an atomic spin ensemble that behaves as a negative-mass oscillator. The planned proof-of-principle system will serve as a prototype in existing large-scale gravitational wave detectors and in the upcoming Einstein Telescope.
Objective
Worldwide efforts are undertaken today towards improving the detection of gravitational waves (GW). The detection of these waves allows to deepen our understanding of the Universe, its composition, and its creation. Today, environmental or technical sources of noise of GW detectors are well controlled. As a result, the strain sensitivity of most GW detectors is fundamentally limited by quantum noise throughout most of their detection bandwidth. In particular, one effect called the quantum back action (QBA) is dominant typically below 100Hz, while shot noise dominates at higher frequencies. One common solution to beat the fundamental quantum limit is to use squeezed light, but this technique is only effective within a relatively narrow frequency band. For broadband detection, it is necessary to impose a frequency-dependent tailoring of the squeezed light source, an expensive solution which requires the construction of large scale (hundreds of meters) Fabry-Pero cavities. In this research project, we propose the experimental investigation of an alternative solution for beating both shot noise (high frequency) and QBA (low frequency) simultaneously. The technique relies on the macroscopic entanglement of the GW detector and an atomic spin ensemble which behaves as a negative-mass oscillator. By probing both systems using a non-degenerate entangled source of light, it becomes possible to beat the quantum limit over a large spectral bandwidth. We intend to build a compact proof-of-principle setup which would serve as a prototype for applications in existing large scale GW detection systems, as well as in the upcoming Einstein Telescope due in 2035. We believe it is competitive with state-of-the-art techniques currently implemented on GW detectors, with nevertheless a great advantage in price, compactness and versatility of integration. If successful, our project could significantly contribute to the next generation of GW detectors.
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2021-PF-01
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
1165 KOBENHAVN
Denmark
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